2-MINUTE DRILL
ACCORDING TO ... TOM HAUDRICOURT
Brewers beat writer Tom Haudricourt fielded questions recently on JSOnline. Here’s an excerpt:
Q. Who do you think is the most likely under the radar pickup from the offseason that makes the team and returns value in a trade this year a la our bullpen and Aaron Hill from last season?
A. Perhaps left-hander Tommy Milone. If he makes the rotation and has a big staff, the Brewers might try to flip him to another team for prospects at midseason.
Q. Is there any precedent elsewhere in the majors for a player coming back from Japan and having success in MLB like Thames will be doing this year?
A. Actually, Thames is coming back from Korea. As for coming back and making a major impact, Cecil Fielder did it coming back from Japan. Others have returned and done OK but it’s not an everyday thing to return after three years abroad and do something big. That’s why this will be interesting to watch because the Brewers are gambling on Thames and thinking out of the box. And they released home-run champ Chris Carter to do so.
Q. If you were to pick one guy to have a breakout season who would it be? Broxton, Santana, Arcia or somebody else?
A. It would be Santana because he has shown flashes in the past but was sidetracked last year by injuries. If he stays healthy, there is talent there for a big year. So, he’s my choice for breakout candidate.
Q. Do the Brewers have what it takes to make the playoffs this season? Your response.
A. Perhaps you’ve heard about the Brewers’ rebuilding plan? It’s in its second full season. Take a look at what the Cubs did in the second year of their rebuild and you’ll have your answer.